Tainan City Health Bureau inspects cocoa products

The Tainan City Health Bureau conducted a specialized inspection of cocoa product manufacturers to ensure consumer safety. Following a project led by the Food and Drug Administration, officials inspected five local manufacturers, reviewing registration, product liability insurance, and Good Hygiene Practices (GHP).

While all 14 sampled products—including chocolate, cocoa mass, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil—passed safety tests for contaminants such as ethylene oxide, cadmium, total aflatoxin, benzo[a]pyrene, and glycidyl fatty acid esters, labeling issues were identified. Out of 17 items checked, 14 complied with regulations while three failed to meet labeling standards. The Health Bureau has issued fines totaling NT$100,000 for these violations.

Health Bureau Director Li Cui-feng emphasized that manufacturers must implement self-management from raw materials to finished products and ensure accurate labeling to protect consumer rights. The bureau will continue monitoring food safety through regular inspections and risk assessments.